The approval comes on the heels of Charlotte City Council's authorization for the city manager's use of $12 million to advance the project to at least 65 percent. This September, CATS will be able to submit a Small Starts grant application for approximately $63 million to execute the project and be included in the 2016 Presidential Budget, meaning the $12 million spent to advance the design will be eligible for reimbursement upon approval of the grant submission. The $63 million will fund half the project with the rest of the funding coming from an adopted budget ordinance consisting of existing General Community Investment Pay-As-You-Go and Municipal Debt Service Funds.

"We are committed to providing diverse transportation options and increased connectivity for our customers. Entering into Phase 2 is a step in the right direction to increasingly serve the public with transit services that promote a thriving community," said Carolyn Flowers, CEO of CATS.

Phase 1 of the CiyyLYNX Gold Line is currently under construction and will build 1.5 miles of the proposed 10-mile route. Phase 2 will extend the Phase 1 segment by 2.5 miles.